Switzerland has a thriving ice hockey scene that has produced some of the greatest players of all time. From the Swiss National Team to the Swiss National League, the ice hockey talent in Switzerland is nothing short of impressive.
From superstars like Mark Streit and Martin Gerber to up and comers like Timo Meier and Nico Hischier, the Swiss have a deep and talented pool of players that have made a lasting impact on the game.
We will take a look at some of the best ice hockey players to come out of Switzerland. We will review their accomplishments and what makes them stand out as some of the best in the country.
1. Roman Josi
Roman Josi is a Swiss professional ice hockey defenceman and the captain of the Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League. He was drafted by the Predators in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, making him the 38th overall pick.
Josi grew up in Switzerland and was involved in the local ice hockey scene from a young age. He played with the renowned SC Bern from 2006 to 2010, gaining valuable experience and helping to build on his already impressive skillset.
During his time with SC Bern, Josi made a name for himself and established himself as an important part of the team. He eventually earned a place in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, where he was chosen by the Nashville Predators.
His strong play for the Predators has helped him make a name for himself in the NHL, eventually earning him the captaincy in 2020.
Josi has gone from a young prospect in Switzerland to becoming one of the NHL’s premier defencemen, and he has become an important part of the Predators organization.
2. Nino Niederreiter
Nino Niederreiter is a Swiss professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Winnipeg Jets of the National Hockey League.
He achieved a major milestone in hockey history when he was selected fifth overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders, becoming the highest-drafted Swiss player in NHL history at the time.
This accomplishment was even more impressive given the fact that he was only 18 years old when drafted. Niederreiter had an impressive junior career, playing for teams in Switzerland, Finland, and the United States.
He also played in the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championship and was named the tournament’s most valuable player. After being drafted, Niederreiter played for the Islanders for two seasons before being traded to the Minnesota Wild in 2013.
He spent three seasons with the Wild before being traded to the Jets in 2017. Throughout his NHL career, Niederreiter has consistently displayed a strong two-way game. He has been an effective goal scorer, recording 20 or more goals in four of his eight NHL seasons.
He has also been a very reliable penalty killer, playing over two minutes a game in both the regular season and playoffs for the Jets. Overall, Nino Niederreiter is an outstanding hockey player who has achieved a great deal of success in the NHL.
His selection as the highest-drafted Swiss hockey player in history will be remembered for years to come.
3. Nico Hischier
Nico Hischier is a Swiss professional ice hockey player who currently plays center and serves as the captain of the New Jersey Devils in the National Hockey League (NHL). Hischier is a highly skilled player who is known for his speed, dexterity, and playmaking ability.
He was selected first overall in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft and has since established himself as one of the NHL’s premier young players. He was named the captain of the Devils in 2021, becoming the youngest player in NHL history to wear the “C” for his team.
Hischier has represented Switzerland in numerous international tournaments, including the 2016 World Junior Championships, the 2017 World Championships, and the 2021 World Championships.
He has won several awards during his career, including the Swiss Ice Hockey Award for Best Forward in 2017 and 2018 and the Swiss Ice Hockey Award for Best Player in 2020.
Hischier is also a strong leader who has continually strived to inspire and motivate his teammates to success. Nico Hischier is a Swiss ice hockey star who is quickly emerging as one of the NHL’s best.
He has already achieved great success in his young career and is likely to become one of the top players in the league in the years to come.
4. Mark Streit
Mark Thomas Streit is a Swiss former professional ice hockey defenceman, who was known for his unique ability to play both as a defenceman and a forward.
He had notable success in the National Hockey League (NHL), notably playing for the New York Islanders, who he captained for several years.
During his long hockey career, he also gained recognition for his achievements in international hockey, as he served as captain of the Swiss national team. Streit was recognized for his accomplishments with his induction into the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Hall of Fame in 2020.
This honour is only given to those who have had an immense impact on the game and Streit is no exception. His ability to play both offensively and defensively made him an invaluable asset to his teams and he was able to make an impact no matter what position he played.
His leadership and skill in the game have earned him his rightful place in the IIHF Hall of Fame and will stand as an example for future generations of hockey players.
5. Timo Meier
Timo Meier is a professional hockey player from Switzerland who currently plays for the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League. He was drafted in 2015 by the San Jose Sharks in the NHL Entry Draft as the ninth overall pick.
This made him the third Swiss player to be drafted by the Sharks in the team’s history. Meier has had a successful career thus far, with an impressive stat line of goals and assists.
He has also represented Switzerland in international competitions, such as the World Junior Championships and the World Championships, and is seen as a leader and role model for the Swiss hockey community.
6. Kevin Fiala
Kevin Fiala is a Swiss professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League (NHL). Fiala, a left winger, was drafted by the Nashville Predators in the first round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.
He has spent the majority of his career in the NHL playing for the Predators but was traded to the Minnesota Wild in 2019. After spending one season with the Wild, Fiala signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Kings in 2020.
Fiala began his professional career in the Swiss National League playing for HC Davos. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s top players, leading the team in scoring in both the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons.
His stellar play earned him a spot on the Swiss National Team for the 2013 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, where he was selected to the tournament’s All-Star Team. Since joining the NHL, Fiala has continued to be a consistent offensive threat.
He has recorded at least 10 goals in each of his five NHL seasons and was named to the NHL All-Star Game in 2020. He has also represented Switzerland in several international tournaments, including the 2014 and 2018 Winter Olympics.
Overall, Kevin Fiala is a highly accomplished and talented professional ice hockey player. His impressive career in both the Swiss National League and the NHL has earned him recognition from both fans and analysts alike.
He is now a key member of the Los Angeles Kings and will look to continue his success with the team in the coming season.
7. Jonas Siegenthaler
Jonas Siegenthaler is a professional ice hockey player from Switzerland. He currently plays as a defenseman for the New Jersey Devils, a team in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Siegenthaler is a highly-skilled defenseman who is considered to be one of the best defensive players in the NHL. He is known for his strong skating, excellent passing, and shot-blocking ability.
He is also a great leader on the ice and often takes a leading role in team rallies and strategies. His presence on the ice is invaluable to his team, and he has become a key part of the Devils’ defensive core.
8. Jonas Hiller
Jonas Hiller is a former Swiss professional hockey goaltender who had a successful career in the NHL. Hiller began his NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007, despite not being selected in the NHL Entry Draft.
He then went on to play for the Calgary Flames, where he played for six seasons before retiring in 2016. Throughout his tenure in the NHL, Hiller was known for his ability to make big saves and his adeptness at playing the puck.
His skill and dedication to the game were recognized in 2013 when he was named to the NHL All-Star game. Hiller’s career spanned across nine seasons, during which he earned numerous accolades, such as the NHL Second Star of the Week and three NHL Player of the Week awards.
Despite being undrafted, Hiller proved to be one of the best goaltenders of his time and a true asset to the NHL.
9. Akira Schmid
Akira Schmid is a Swiss professional ice hockey goaltender for the New Jersey Devils of the National Hockey League (NHL).
He was born in Switzerland and began his hockey career playing for local teams, until he was selected by the Devils in the fifth round, 136th overall, of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft.
This draft is an annual event that takes place each summer, where teams from the NHL select players from junior, college, and other amateur hockey leagues.
Schmid was one of many players chosen that year, and with his selection to the Devils, he became the first Swiss-born goaltender in NHL history. Since his selection, Schmid has worked hard to become a valuable asset to the Devils.
He has trained extensively to become a reliable goaltender and has earned the respect of his teammates and coaches. He has also become a fan favorite, with his strong play and inspiring story.
Schmid has already made an impact on the Devils and looks to build off of this success in the future.
10. Yannick Weber
Yannick Cyril Weber is a Swiss professional ice hockey defenseman currently playing with the ZSC Lions of the National League. He is a highly respected player in the hockey world and has been a part of the Swiss National team since 2015.
He began his career in the Swiss league back in 2004 and has since gone on to play in various leagues around the world. Yannick Cyril Weber was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the third round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.
This marked his first introduction to the NHL, and he would go on to play a total of five seasons with the Canadiens. During his time in Montreal, he established himself as a reliable defenseman and was a key part of their defense.
He was also a part of their run to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2014. Since leaving the Canadiens, Yannick Cyril Weber has continued to play in various leagues around the world.
He has been with the ZSC Lions of the National League since the 2018-19 season and has been a stable presence on the team’s blue line. He is respected among his peers in the National League and is seen as a leader on the ZSC Lions.
11. Denis Malgin
Denis Malgin is a Swiss professional ice hockey player who currently plays for the ZSC Lions in the National League. He was drafted by the Florida Panthers in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft in the fourth round, 102nd overall.
Malgin has been playing hockey for the majority of his life, and his skill and dedication to the game has earned him a position in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
He is a versatile player who can handle all aspects of the game, and he is an important part of the Lions’ lineup. Malgin is a strong skater who is adept at reading the game and making plays on both offense and defense.
His ability to read the ice and make quick decisions have made him an asset to his team and a key part of their success.
12. Pius Suter
Pius Suter is an incredibly talented Swiss ice hockey player currently playing for the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League.
He is considered a professional forward in the league and has played for two other teams throughout his career, the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings.
Suter has had a long and successful career in the NHL, and his skill and dedication to the game has earned him respect and admiration from many professional players and fans alike.
His current team, the Vancouver Canucks, is looking to take advantage of his experience and skill in the upcoming season. With Suter’s help, they hope to make it to the playoffs and compete for a championship.
13. David Aebischer
David Aebischer is a retired Swiss professional ice hockey goaltender who enjoyed a successful career in the National Hockey League (NHL).
He began his NHL career with the Colorado Avalanche in 2000, winning the Stanley Cup with them in 2001 and becoming the first Swiss native to do so. He spent the next two seasons with the Montreal Canadiens before moving to the Phoenix Coyotes in 2003.
Aebischer played a total of six seasons in the NHL, appearing in 249 regular season games and 24 playoff games. He had some of his best seasons with the Avalanche, posting a career-high 2.09 goals-against average in 2001-02 and a career-high .912 save percentage in 2002-03.
He also won the Jacques Plante Trophy in 2001-02 as the goaltender with the best goals-against average in the NHL. After leaving the NHL, Aebischer returned to Switzerland and has continued to play professionally in the Swiss League.
He has been a member of HC Fribourg-Gottéron since 2009 and won the Swiss championship with them in 2012. He has also represented Switzerland in several international tournaments, including the 2006 Winter Olympics and the 2018 Winter Olympics.
David Aebischer is an important figure in Swiss hockey history. He was the first Swiss native to win the Stanley Cup and his career accomplishments have been an inspiration to other Swiss hockey players.
14. Martin Gerber
Martin Gerber is a former professional ice hockey goaltender from Switzerland. He had an impressive career in the National Hockey League (NHL) and was selected in the eighth round of the 2001 NHL Entry Draft by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim.
At the time of his selection, Gerber was playing in the Swiss National League A for HC Lugano. He had already established himself as one of the best goaltenders in the league and was widely regarded as a top prospect for the NHL.
After being drafted, Gerber chose to remain in Switzerland for one more season before making the move to North America.
Gerber spent the 2002-2003 season with the Cincinnati Mighty Ducks of the American Hockey League before making his NHL debut with the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in 2003-2004.
He would go on to play for six different NHL teams in his career, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Ottawa Senators, and finished with a career record of 155-123-45.
Martin Gerber’s career was highlighted by his Stanley Cup championship win with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006. He played a pivotal role in the team’s success that season, finishing the playoffs with a .919 save percentage and a goals against average of 2.55.
After his Stanley Cup victory, Gerber returned to Europe and eventually retired from professional hockey in 2014.
15. Sven Bärtschi
Sven Bärtschi is a former professional ice hockey forward from Switzerland. He began his career playing for SC Langenthal in the National League B in 2009.
After a successful first season, he decided to take his career to the next level and signed with the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League.
During his time in Portland, Sven was a major contributor to the team’s success and his performance was recognized, as he was the runner-up for the league’s Rookie of the Year award.
This award is given to the top rookie player each season and Sven was one of the top contenders for the honour. Sven’s career in the WHL was an impressive one and he was certainly one of the top players in the league.
He has since retired from professional ice hockey, but his legacy in the WHL will remain.
16. Tim Berni
Tim Berni is an accomplished professional ice hockey defenseman from Switzerland. He is currently playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets, a team in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Berni was drafted in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft by the Blue Jackets in the sixth round, 159th overall, making him the 159th overall pick in the draft. Berni is an experienced defenseman who has been playing professionally since he was 17.
He has played for multiple teams in Europe before joining the Blue Jackets and has been an important part of the team since his arrival. He is known for his excellent defensive skills and his ability to move the puck up the ice quickly.
His experience and skill has been a major asset to the Blue Jackets and has helped them to win important games. Berni is an important part of the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his presence on the ice has helped the team to become a playoff contender in recent years.
He is a highly respected player, and his presence on the team is a testament to his skill and dedication to the game. Berni has been a valuable asset to the Blue Jackets, and he has helped them to achieve success.
17. Reto Berra
Reto Berra is a Swiss professional ice hockey goaltender who is currently playing for HC Fribourg-Gottéron of the National League. Berra began his career in his native Switzerland, playing junior hockey for EHC Kloten of the Swiss Elite Jr.
A-League, where he was named to the League’s All-Star Team in the 2006–07 season.
He then moved to HC Davos of the top-level Swiss National League A, where he played for four seasons before signing with HC Fribourg-Gottéron in 2010. Berra has represented Switzerland at several international events, including the 2009 World Junior Ice Hockey Championship, the 2010 IIHF World Championship, and the 2014 Winter Olympics.
He was also named to the Swiss team for the 2014 IIHF World Championship. Berra is considered one of the top goaltenders in the National League and has earned several awards and honors during his career, including being named the league’s best goaltender in 2011–12.
He is currently playing for HC Fribourg-Gottéron and is looking to help the team make a deep playoff run this season.
18. Mirco Müller
Mirco Müller is a Swiss professional ice hockey defenceman currently playing in the National League for HC Lugano. He has had a long history in the National Hockey League (NHL), having played for the San Jose Sharks and the New Jersey Devils from 2014 to 2020.
In 2013, the Sharks chose Müller in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft, a major event in which teams choose newly eligible players for their roster. This marked a major step forward in his career and since then, he has become a well-known and respected player in the NHL.
His skill and commitment to the game have enabled him to excel at HC Lugano and he is sure to have a successful future ahead of him.
19. Calvin Thürkauf
Calvin Thürkauf is a professional ice hockey player from Switzerland. He currently plays for HC Lugano, which is a part of the National League.
Thürkauf was recognized for his talent when he was drafted in the seventh round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets. This is an impressive achievement considering the NHL Entry Draft is one of the highest levels of recognition for a hockey player.
Thürkauf has since continued to make a name for himself in the National League, and continues to show promise as a professional hockey player.
20. Sven Andrighetto
Sven Andrighetto is a talented Swiss ice hockey player who currently plays for the ZSC Lions of the National League, the top tier of professional ice hockey in Switzerland. He was born in Zurich in 1992 and first started playing hockey at a young age.
After years of hard work and dedication, his skills and talent caught the attention of the National Hockey League (NHL). In 2013, he was selected in the third round of the NHL’s Entry Draft by the Montreal Canadiens, making him one of the few Swiss players to make it to the NHL.
That same year he decided to stay in Switzerland and signed a contract with the ZSC Lions, where he has been playing ever since. He has made a name for himself in Switzerland and is considered to be one of the top players in the league.
He is a valuable asset to any team and his determination and passion for the sport make him one of the most sought-after players in the game.
21. Roman Wick
Roman Wick is a former professional ice hockey player from Switzerland. He began his career playing for EHC Kloten and ZSC Lions in the National League, the top tier of ice hockey in his home country.
In 2004, Roman was drafted in the fifth round of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators, a team in the National Hockey League (NHL). This was a very prestigious accomplishment, as the NHL is considered to be the world’s top professional hockey league.
In 2010, the Senators signed him to a one-year contract, allowing Wick to compete in the NHL and experience the highest level of hockey in the world.
Although Roman’s professional career as a hockey player has now come to an end, his accomplishments both in Switzerland and in the NHL will be remembered for years to come.
22. Raphael Díaz
Raphael Salvador Diaz is a Swiss professional ice hockey defenceman. He plays for HC Fribourg-Gottéron in the National League, which is the top tier of ice hockey in Switzerland. Diaz had a brief stint in the NHL, making the jump to the big leagues after the 2014 trade deadline.
He was traded to the Rangers, where he played for the remainder of the 2014 season. After the season, Diaz decided to return to his native Switzerland to play with HC Fribourg-Gottéron.
Since then, he has become a key part of the team and has helped them become one of the top teams in the National League. Diaz has become a fan favorite in Switzerland and is considered one of the top defensemen in the league.
23. Luca Sbisa
Luca Sbisa is a highly accomplished former professional ice hockey defenceman. He was born in Italy but represented Switzerland internationally, playing for his country in the Olympics and World Championships.
After retirement, he moved into coaching, taking up a role as a development coach for the San Jose Sharks. Before this, he had a successful career with several teams in the National Hockey League (NHL), including the Philadelphia Flyers, Anaheim Ducks, Vancouver Canucks, Vegas Golden Knights, New York Islanders, Winnipeg Jets and Nashville Predators.
During these teams, he was a reliable and consistent presence on the ice, helping his teams to victories in the regular season and playoffs.
He was also an excellent mentor for younger players, teaching them the fundamentals of the game and instilling in them a sense of respect for the game and its traditions.
Throughout his time in the NHL, Luca Sbisa was an important figure in the Swiss ice hockey scene, both as a player and as a coach.
His experience and knowledge of the game have been invaluable to his teams, and his achievements will be remembered in the hockey world for years to come.
24. Thomas Ziegler
Thomas Ziegler is a well-respected figure in the world of ice hockey. He is a Swiss former professional ice hockey player who made a huge impact on the game during his playing career.
He was born in Zurich, Switzerland and began playing ice hockey at a young age. Thomas Ziegler was known for his commitment to the game and his skill in playing it. He had a great eye for the game and was a natural leader on the ice.
He was also known for his strong work ethic and was an important part of the Swiss national team during his career. During his playing career, Thomas Ziegler was part of the Swiss National Team and made appearances in several international tournaments.
He was an integral part of the team’s success during these tournaments and helped the Swiss team to several medals. Thomas Ziegler had a successful career with the Swiss National Team and later went on to play professionally in the Swiss National League A.
He was an important part of the success of the team and his play helped them to reach the top of the league. Thomas Ziegler’s career in ice hockey was a successful one and he is remembered fondly by fans of the game.
He was an important part of the Swiss national team and his skill and hard work helped them to achieve great success. He is an example of what can be achieved when hard work and dedication are combined.
25. Goran Bezina
Goran Bezina is a former professional ice hockey player from Switzerland. He is best known as a defenseman, a position in which he excelled throughout his career. He began his career with Genève-Servette HC, a professional team that plays in the National League of Switzerland.
He played with the team for most of his career and was an essential part of their success. His ability as a defenseman was instrumental in the team’s success on the ice. Bezina was known as an intelligent player, with great vision and a strong sense of positioning.
He was also praised for his leadership abilities and was often seen as a mentor to younger players. As a result, he was an integral part of Genève-Servette HC’s success, and his contributions were a major factor in their success.
26. Tim Ramholt
Tim Ramholt is a former professional ice hockey defenceman who hails from Switzerland. He had a long and successful career playing at various clubs, both in his home country and abroad. His first professional contract was with the ZSC Lions in Switzerland.
After gaining experience at the club, he decided to move to North America in an attempt to pursue a career in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Despite his impressive skill, he was not able to secure a permanent spot on an NHL team and returned to Switzerland to sign for EHC Kloten in the Swiss National League. He played for the team until his retirement.
Throughout his career, Tim Ramholt was known for his strong defensive abilities and leadership qualities. He was also a mentor to many of the younger players coming up in the game. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Swiss hockey players.
27. Tobias Stephan
Tobias Stephan is a former professional ice hockey goaltender who had a successful 15-year career in the Swiss National League. During this time, he played for multiple teams, demonstrating his talent and skill as a goaltender.
In 2007-08 and 2008-09, Stephan had the opportunity to play 11 games in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Dallas Stars. Despite his brief stint in the NHL, Stephan had a successful career in the Swiss National League and is remembered fondly by many fans.
Stephan’s time in the NHL was a highlight of his career, and it is a testament to his dedication and skill as an ice hockey goaltender.
28. Reto von Arx
Reto von Arx is a retired Swiss ice hockey player who enjoyed a successful career in his home country’s Nationaliga A. He was first active in the league from 1995 to 2015, during which time he established himself as an important part of his team’s lineup.
His talent was also recognized by the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League (NHL), who offered him a chance to play in the 2000–01 season. During this time, he appeared in 19 games for the Blackhawks and made a big impression in the competitive NHL.
After his stint with the Blackhawks, Reto returned to the Swiss Nationaliga A, where he continued to play until his retirement in 2015.
Throughout his career, Reto von Arx was an important contributor to the Swiss national hockey team, and his skill and dedication will be remembered for years to come.
29. Michel Riesen
Michel Riesen is a Swiss former professional ice hockey winger who had a successful career spanning two decades, from 1994-2014. During this period, he was a star player in the Swiss Nationalliga A, the top Swiss ice hockey league.
His skill and talent earned him a chance to play in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Edmonton Oilers during the 2000-01 season. He played in 12 games during that stint, showcasing his talent on the biggest stage of them all.
After that season, Riesen returned to Switzerland and continued to dominate the Nationalliga A until the end of his career in 2014. His accomplishments in the two decades of play are a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport.
30. Timo Helbling
Timo Helbling is a notable name in the world of ice hockey. He is a former Swiss professional ice hockey defenceman who had a successful career playing in the National League.
He played for a total of seven teams throughout his career, which include HC Davos, Kloten Flyers, HC Lugano, HC Fribourg-Gottéron, SC Bern, EV Zug, and SC Rapperswil-Jona.
Helbling started his professional career with HC Davos in 1993, playing with the team for two seasons before transferring to Kloten Flyers. He then moved to HC Lugano, where he spent three seasons before being acquired by HC Fribourg-Gottéron in 1999.
Helbling stayed with the team for six seasons, helping them reach the Swiss League finals in 2002 and 2004. In 2005, Helbling transferred to SC Bern, where he stayed for three seasons.
After that, he went on to play for EV Zug for two seasons before joining SC Rapperswil-Jona in 2010. He stayed with the team for three seasons, retiring from professional ice hockey in 2013. Throughout his career, Helbling proved to be a reliable player on the ice.
He was known for his strong skating and defensive abilities, which helped him to become one of the most successful ice hockey defencemen in the National League. He was also a leader on the ice and served as an assistant captain for several teams.
Timo Helbling is an example of a dedicated athlete who worked hard to reach the top of his sport. He is a testament to the skill and determination necessary for any aspiring ice hockey player to reach the highest levels of the game.
31. Cody Almond
Cody Almond is a professional ice hockey player who hails from Canada but plays for the Swiss ice hockey team Lausanne HC in the National League. He was previously part of the Minnesota Wild, an NHL team based in the United States.
Almond has been playing professional ice hockey since 2009 and has since accrued significant amounts of experience and prowess on the ice.
He was drafted by the Minnesota Wild in the 2009 NHL Draft and played with them for three seasons before joining Lausanne HC in the 2014-15 season. He has since become a crucial part of the team, helping them to success in the National League.
His skill set and knowledge of the game has enabled him to become a vital part of the team’s success.
32. Pauli Jaks
Pauli Jaks is a former professional ice hockey goaltender who hails from Switzerland. He is best known for playing one game in the NHL with the Los Angeles Kings during the 1994–95 season.
Jaks was born in Langenthal, Switzerland, and began his professional career in his home country with EHC Visp and SC Bern.
Jaks moved to North America in 1991 and played in the minor leagues with the San Diego Gulls of the International Hockey League and the Fort Wayne Komets of the East Coast Hockey League.
In 1994, Jaks was called up to the Los Angeles Kings and made his NHL debut on December 8, 1994. He played the entire game, stopping 28 of 33 shots. Unfortunately, the Kings lost the game 6–3. Jaks was sent back to the minors the next day and never returned to the NHL.
After his brief stint in the NHL, Jaks returned to Switzerland and continued his career in the Swiss National League A. He retired in 2004 after a successful career in both Switzerland and North America.
33. Joël Vermin
Joël Vermin is a Swiss professional ice hockey winger who is currently playing for SC Bern of the National League. He is a highly talented and experienced player who is widely respected in the sports world.
Vermin is originally from Switzerland and began his hockey playing career with HC Ajoie in the Swiss League. He then went on to join the SC Bern team in 2014 and has been playing with them ever since.
Vermin is a highly sought-after player, and his skills have been recognized by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. The Lightning selected him in the 7th round of the draft, a testament to the skill and talent he has to offer.
Vermin is a talented and experienced player, and his impressive career has been recognized by the NHL. He is currently playing for SC Bern in the National League and is looking to continue to make a name for himself in the hockey world.
He is considered to be one of the best Swiss players in the league, and his future looks bright.
34. Dean Kukan
Dean Kukan is a professional ice hockey player from Switzerland who currently plays for the ZSC Lions in the National League.
His parents are of Czech origin, making Kukan a Czech-Swiss dual citizen. In his professional career, Kukan has been an important part of the Swiss ice hockey scene for many years. He has played for several teams in Switzerland, including the Kloten Flyers and the ZSC Lions.
With the Lions, he has won the National League championship twice. Kukan has also represented Switzerland in the international ice hockey scene. He was part of the Swiss team that won the bronze medal at the 2014 World Championships.
He has also been a part of the Swiss team at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and the 2018 Winter Olympics. Kukan is known for his excellent skating ability and strong defensive game.
He is a reliable defender who is able to shut down opponents and get the puck out of the defensive zone quickly. He is also an offensive threat, as he is able to make smart decisions with the puck and set up his teammates for scoring chances.
Overall, Dean Kukan is an important part of the Swiss ice hockey community. With his strong play in the National League and his contribution to the Swiss national team, he is helping to move Swiss ice hockey forward.
35. Gaëtan Haas
Gaëtan Haas is a Swiss professional ice hockey center who currently plays in the National League for EHC Biel. He was appointed captain of the team in the 2020-2021 season.
Prior to playing in the National League, Haas had experience playing in the National Hockey League (NHL), where he played for the Edmonton Oilers. His time in the NHL was followed by his move to the Swiss National League, where he has gone on to make a name for himself.
During his tenure with SC Bern, he won the NL title in 2019, further solidifying his status as a top hockey player. Haas has also represented Switzerland on the international stage.
He was part of the team that won a silver medal at the 2018 World Championships, and he was also part of the team that won the Spengler Cup in 2019. Overall, Gaëtan Haas is a highly accomplished hockey player who has achieved success in both the NHL and the National League.
His success on the ice is further complemented by his leadership skills, which he has put on display with his current role as captain of EHC Biel.
36. Damien Brunner
Damien Brunner is an accomplished professional ice hockey player from Switzerland. Currently, he plays for EHC Biel of the National League, one of the top ice hockey leagues in the world.
Prior to joining EHC Biel, Brunner played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for two teams: the Detroit Red Wings and the New Jersey Devils. During his time in the NHL, Brunner established himself as a reliable goal-scorer and playmaker.
He recorded several 20-goal seasons and racked up a number of assists. He also had a strong presence in the playoffs, helping his teams reach the Stanley Cup Finals and the Conference Finals.
All in all, Brunner was a valuable asset to the teams he played for, and his production and leadership will be remembered for a long time.
37. Hnat Domenichelli
Hnat A. Domenichelli is a unique individual, having both Canadian and Swiss citizenship as well as Ukrainian heritage. His professional ice hockey career began when he was drafted by the Hartford Whalers in the fourth round of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft.
He was chosen as the 83rd player overall, which is quite an accomplishment. Although Domenichelli was born in North America, his parents had Ukrainian roots. This ethnic background has allowed him to draw from a wealth of culture and experiences in his personal life.
In addition, the dual citizenship of Canada and Switzerland has also provided him with a wide variety of benefits, such as the ability to travel and explore both countries. Throughout his career, Domenichelli has had a number of successful stops in the NHL, including the Washington Capitals, Atlanta Thrashers, and Phoenix Coyotes.
He also played in the AHL, the Swiss National League, and the Swiss-A League. Despite his many successes, Domenichelli ultimately decided to retire from professional hockey in 2014.Hnat A.
Domenichelli is a great example of a multi-talented individual who has been able to make the most of his unique background and experiences. He has achieved a great deal of success in the hockey world and is an inspiration to many who share his ethnic and cultural heritage.
38. Simon Moser
Simon Moser is an exceptionally talented athlete. He is a Swiss professional ice hockey player who currently serves as the captain of SC Bern of the National League.
This is an impressive accomplishment for someone so young. Moser has been playing hockey since he was a child and has developed his skills to become a professional player. He has had the opportunity to play in the National Hockey League with the Nashville Predators.
This is a testament to his skill as a player and leader. Moser has been a leader since his days in the National League, where he was the captain of SC Bern. He has the respect of his teammates and his coaches, who value his leadership and commitment to the team.
Moser is also a very competitive player and is always striving to improve his game. Moser is an inspirational figure for many young hockey players. He has demonstrated that with hard work and dedication, it is possible to reach the highest level of hockey.
His success serves as an example to others who may have similar aspirations. Moser is an exceptional athlete who has achieved much in his career. He is a leader and an inspiration to many, and an example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication.
39. Patrick Fischer
Patrick Fischer is a well-known figure in the world of ice hockey. He had a distinguished playing career, featuring a brief stint in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Arizona Coyotes.
Before his time in the NHL, Fischer was a prominent player in the National League A (NLA) in his native Switzerland. Today, Fischer is widely recognized as a successful coach. He is the head coach of the Swiss national team, a role which he has held since 2017.
During his time as head coach, Fischer has managed to guide the Swiss team to a number of impressive victories, including a place in the quarterfinals of the 2019 IIHF World Championships. He has also been credited with helping to improve the overall standard of Swiss ice hockey.
Fischer has been praised for his ability to develop players and for his commitment to encouraging a positive team environment. Overall, Patrick Fischer is a highly respected figure in the world of ice hockey.
His playing and coaching careers have made him an invaluable asset to the Swiss national team. His commitment to excellence has been a major factor in the team’s recent successes.
40. Paul DiPietro
Paul Anthony DiPietro is an accomplished ice hockey player who was born in Canada but later adopted Swiss citizenship.
After a successful career in the National Hockey League, he achieved one of the highest honors in the sport, winning the Stanley Cup as a member of the Montreal Canadiens in 1993.
His skill and talent were also recognized at the international level, as he was chosen to be part of the Swiss national ice hockey team for the 2006 Winter Olympics.
This is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport, making him a true role model for aspiring hockey players everywhere.
DiPietro has earned recognition as one of the best hockey players to come out of Canada, and his career is an inspiration to future generations of athletes.
41. Mathias Seger
Mathias Seger is a renowned Swiss former professional ice hockey defenceman. He was a part of two teams in the National League – the SC Rapperswil-Jona Lakers and the ZSC Lions. In 1996, Seger began his professional career with the SC Rapperswil-Jona Lakers.
During his three-year tenure with the team, he proved to be a valuable asset, displaying a high level of skill and talent. In 1999, Seger joined the ZSC Lions, a club that was part of the National League.
He had a successful run with the team, playing for a period of time and helping them reach new heights. Seger was well-liked by his teammates and fans and was known for his commitment to the team. Seger’s legacy remains strong even after his retirement.
He is remembered for his work ethic and dedication to the game. He is an example of a successful athlete who was able to make a successful transition from one team to another. Seger’s success in the National League is a testament to his skill and determination.
42. Bibi Torriani
Richard “Bibi” Torriani was a Swiss athlete who was well known for his prowess in ice hockey, luge, and coaching.
Born Riccardo Torriani, he was fondly called “Bibi” by his friends and family. Torriani was an avid ice hockey player, and his career spanned two decades from 1929 to 1950.
During this period, he played for the HC Davos team and served as captain of the Switzerland men’s national ice hockey team from 1933 to 1939.
His skill and leadership were instrumental in helping the team win several championships in the years to come. In addition to his ice hockey career, Torriani was also a talented luge athlete.
He competed in several competitions and was a regular member of the Swiss national luge team. Torriani was also a skilled coach and helped to mentor and develop a number of promising young athletes. Torriani was a respected athlete and coach in Switzerland.
His achievements in ice hockey, luge, and coaching have been fondly remembered and celebrated by fans all over the world. His name is a testament to his greatness, and his legacy will continue to live on for many years to come.
43. Damien Riat
Damien Riat is a Swiss professional ice hockey winger who plays for the Lausanne HC of the National League. He was born in Switzerland and has been playing hockey since a young age. Riat was drafted 117th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft.
This marked a major milestone in Riat’s career, as it made him the highest drafted Swiss player since Nino Niederreiter in 2010. It also signaled that Riat had the potential to make it to the highest level of hockey, the NHL.
Since his draft selection, Riat has worked hard to improve his game and has become an important member of the Lausanne HC team.
His hard work and determination has paid off, as he has been able to make a name for himself in the National League and is now considered a top prospect for the Washington Capitals.
Overall, Damien Riat is an impressive hockey player who has achieved a lot in a short amount of time. His hard work and dedication has allowed him to become a top prospect in the NHL and is an example of how hard work and determination can pay off.
44. René Stüssi
René Stüssi is a former Swiss professional ice hockey player who spent most of his career in the Nationalliga A, the top tier of Swiss hockey.
Stüssi played 227 regular season games over the course of his career, representing some of the most prestigious and well-known teams in Switzerland such as EHC Kloten, ZSC Lions, EV Zug, EHC Chur and EHC Basel.
He eventually retired from hockey in 2017 after playing one season with Pikes EHC Oberthurgau in the Regio League, the fourth tier of Swiss hockey. Throughout his career, Stüssi was known for his ability to play the right winger position.
He displayed great skill in his play, which allowed him to compete at the highest level in Swiss hockey.
His time with each of the teams mentioned above helped him develop and hone his abilities and eventually allowed him to reach the pinnacle of Swiss hockey. Although Stüssi has since retired from hockey, his accomplishments on the ice are still remembered by many.
His contributions to Swiss hockey have been immense, and he is a true example of what hard work and dedication can lead to. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of all those who followed his career.
45. Ferdinand Cattini
Ferdinand “Pic” Cattini was a Swiss ice hockey player who had the honor of competing in two Olympic Games. He was a part of the 1936 Winter Olympics in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany and also the 1948 Winter Olympics in St. Moritz, Switzerland.
His excellence in the sport of ice hockey was formally recognized in 1998 when he was inducted into the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Hall of Fame.
He was not the only member of his family to be recognized in this way, as his brother Hans Cattini was also inducted to the IIHF Hall of Fame in 1998. This made Pic and Hans the first brothers to be inducted to the IIHF Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
Switzerland has many talented ice hockey players who have made a name for themselves on the international stage.
From the country’s top scorer, Timo Meier, to the reigning Stanley Cup champion, Nino Niederreiter, Switzerland has many players who have risen to the top of their field.
With the continued success of Swiss players in the NHL, the country is sure to keep producing some of the best ice hockey players in the world.
